Refrigerated Dog Foods

Paisley Baker
17 min readJun 8, 2024

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Welcome back dog lovers! Today, we’re diving into the world of refrigerated dog food. We know that our furry friends deserve the best, and when it comes to their meals, we want to ensure they’re getting top-notch nutrition. In this roundup, we’ve put together a list of top-rated refrigerated dog food options that provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to keep your pup healthy and happy.

Explore our carefully curated selection and find the perfect fit for your furry pal’s dietary needs. From raw to home-cooked, we’ve got you covered with a variety of options to enrich your dog’s life. Get ready to pamper your poodle, as we bring you the best refrigerated dog food options on the market.

The Top 11 Best Refrigerated Dog Foods

  1. Freshpet Select: Chicken and Vegetable Dog Food for Freshness and Nutrition — Freshpet Select Adult Dog Food: Gently cooked, refrigerated, and packed with real, fresh ingredients for a convenient and nutritious meal for your furry friend.
  2. JustFoodForDogs Fresh Boost Variety Pack: Human-Grade Dog Food for Improved Health and Vitality — JustFoodForDogs Variety Pack: Fresh, Human-Grade Dog Food with 9 Nutritious Recipes, Supports Healthier Skin, Shinier Coats, and Improved Digestion.
  3. Freshpet Refrigerated Chicken Veg Rice Dog Food for Optimal Health — Experience the difference of Freshpet Balanced Nutrition Chicken Veg Rice for your dog — a complete, non-GMO, fresh, and healthy option with no additives, ensuring optimal digestion and skin & coat health.
  4. Freshpet Select: Multi-Protein, Refrigerated Dog Food — Chicken, Beef, Egg & Salmon Recipe — Freshpet’s Multi-Protein Chicken, Beef, Egg & Salmon Dog Food is a nutrient-rich, refrigerated meal for dogs, made with real, fresh ingredients, gently cooked at lower temperatures, and free from artificial additives, for a healthy and wholesome treat.
  5. Healthy Vital Beef & Bison Dog Food — Freshpet Vital Beef & Bison Fresh Grain-Free Dog Food: Non-GMO, naturally tasty, and complete nutrition for your furry friend across all life stages.
  6. Freshpet Select: Refrigerated Dog Food with Tender Chicken & Garden Veggies — Freshpet Select Tender Taste, Grain Free Tiny Chicken & Veggie Recipe! No bad stuff, just the good stuff!
  7. Freshpet Grain Free Beef & Bison Dog Food — 5 lb (Non-GMO, All-Natural, & Balanced) — Freshpet Grain Free Beef & Bison Fresh Dog Food — 5 lb: A high-protein, non-GMO, grain-free meal packed with natural ingredients, perfect for powering your dog’s healthy diet, all stages of life, and made in the USA.
  8. Freshpet Grain-Free Small Breed Refrigerated Dog Food — Freshpet Grain Free Small Breed Complete Meals Food Fresh Dog Food — 1 lb, your pet’s go-to choice for non-GMO, preservative-free, grain-free dog food, made from the freshest all-natural ingredients.
  9. Fresh Venison & Squash Recipe Dog Food for All Breeds — Discover the difference of a fresh, whole food diet for your dog with JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash Recipe Fresh Frozen Dog Food, featuring 100% human grade ingredients and a perfect option for weight loss or transitioning to a novel protein.
  10. JustFoodForDogs Premium Fresh Lamb & Brown Rice Dog Food (6 Pack) — Feeding your furry friend has never been easier — JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Lamb & Brown Rice (6 Pack) is a convenient, human-grade option with no preservatives or additives, ensuring maximum nutritional value and overall health.
  11. Grain-Free Fresh Dog Food — Vital Complete Meals for All Life Stages — Feed your beloved furry companion the ultimate wholesomeness with Freshpet Vital Complete Meals for dogs — a delicious, non-GMO, grain-free meal that’s packed with 100% natural protein and brimming with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

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Reviews

Freshpet Select: Chicken and Vegetable Dog Food for Freshness and Nutrition

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Freshpet Select’s tender chicken dog food offers a delectable blend of fresh ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for your furry friend. This mouthwatering recipe features premium chicken pieces, combined with crispy carrots and leafy spinach, providing a burst of flavors that your dog will surely love. One of the key highlights of this product is its gentle cooking process at lower temperatures, which ensures that essential nutrients are retained, promoting your pet’s overall well-being.

Moreover, the resealable bag design not only makes serving easy but also ensures that the food stays fresh in your refrigerator, extending its shelf life. As Freshpet proudly claims, their recipes are made in the USA, using only real, fresh ingredients, without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Although the product has received impressive ratings from satisfied customers, it is essential to consider that some dogs may experience digestive issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea, as they adapt to the new diet. Additionally, the availability and price of this product may vary depending on your location, which could be a potential drawback for some pet owners.

Overall, Freshpet Select tender chicken dog food is an excellent choice for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, natural product that offers convenience, freshness, and a delicious meal for their furry friend.

JustFoodForDogs Fresh Boost Variety Pack: Human-Grade Dog Food for Improved Health and Vitality

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JustFoodForDogs Fresh Boost Variety Pack offers a delightful range of 5.5-ounce pouches, featuring nine portions of mouth-watering recipes. This diverse selection caters to a wide array of preferences, with two notable meals being Beef & Russet Potato and Turkey & Whole Wheat Macaroni. The brand ensures that every meal is nutritious and wholesome, using human-grade ingredients and excluding any additives, fillers, growth hormones, preservatives, or artificial colorings.

These meals can be served as complete meals or as a luscious topper to your dog’s regular kibble. Designed to meet the needs of pups of all sizes and breeds, the JustFoodForDogs Fresh Boost Variety Pack offers a convenient, ready-to-serve option that promotes improved digestion, healthier skin, and shinier coats. Additionally, the meals help with increased energy levels and more effective weight management, transforming your dog’s life for the better.

The meals are skillfully prepared by hand in open kitchens under the watchful eye of pet owners. This guarantees freshness right at your doorstep, as well as full transparency about the ingredients and the preparation process. The JustFoodForDogs Fresh Boost Variety Pack can be found in most freezers, making it accessible and easy to serve with a quick thaw before mealtime.

Freshpet Refrigerated Chicken Veg Rice Dog Food for Optimal Health

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Freshpet Vital Balanced Nutrition Chicken with Vegetables & Rice is a natural, non-GMO dog food that my dog, Max, absolutely loves. The high-protein chicken is the star of the show, but the fresh vegetables and grains provide a well-rounded, balanced meal. Max has a sensitive stomach, and this fresh food has really helped him stay regular and happy.

Additionally, the Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids in the food keep his skin and coat looking shiny and soft. Max definitely enjoys meal times and gets excited whenever it’s time to feed him. The packaging and serving size are also convenient, making feeding easy and straightforward.

Overall, Freshpet Vital Balanced Nutrition Chicken with Vegetables & Rice is a great choice for dog owners who want to provide their pets with a nutritious, natural diet.

Freshpet Select: Multi-Protein, Refrigerated Dog Food — Chicken, Beef, Egg & Salmon Recipe

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I recently tried the Freshpet Select Dog Food and was quite impressed with the overall experience. This multi-protein recipe with sweet potatoes and garden vegetables genuinely tastes like a fresh meal, and my dog seemed to love it. The refrigerated formula is a unique touch, and I appreciate the convenience of the resealable bag. Freshpet’s dedication to using real, fresh ingredients and avoiding artificial additives also stands out.

However, there are a couple of downsides. The price point is higher than other dog food options on the market, which might be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, the consistency of the food is a bit more wet than traditional kibble, which could be off-putting for some dogs.

Overall, I would recommend giving Freshpet Select Dog Food a try if you’re looking for a different option for your furry friend. The combination of freshness, natural ingredients, and delicious flavors is a game-changer in the world of dog food, even if it comes at a slightly higher price.

Healthy Vital Beef & Bison Dog Food

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Lately, I’ve been trying out the Freshpet Vital Beef & Bison Fresh Grain-Free Dog Food for my furry friend, a straight-haired Cockapoo with sensitive tummy issues. I must say, the first thing that caught my attention was the packaging — it’s not your typical canned dog food, but a roll of fresh meat that’s grain-free and packed with protein.

I was intrigued by the non-GMO, gently cooked ingredients and the fact that it contains no preservatives or by-product meals. It’s a complete and balanced food for all life stages, and made in the USA. I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about how my dog would react to such a different type of food, but he’s always been quite adventurous when it comes to eating.

I decided to give it a try, and my Cockapoo seemed to love it right from the start. The roll is easy to cut up into bite-sized portions, which made mealtime a breeze. The combination of fresh beef and bison, alongside antioxidant-rich blueberries and cranberries, seemed to provide him with a well-rounded and healthy meal.

However, there was one downside to this food. It can be a bit tricky to store, as it requires refrigeration before and after opening. This may not be ideal for dog owners who prefer to have their dog’s food stored at room temperature. Despite this minor inconvenience, the Freshpet Vital Beef & Bison Fresh Grain-Free Dog Food has been a welcome addition to our dog’s mealtime routine. The high-quality ingredients and tasty flavors have made it a favorite for both of us, and I’m glad to see my dog enjoying such a nutritious meal.

Freshpet Select: Refrigerated Dog Food with Tender Chicken & Garden Veggies

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The Freshpet Select Roasted Meals Dog Food, Grain Free, Tender Chicken Recipe with Garden Vegetables, is like nothing I’ve ever tried for my furry friend. As a self-proclaimed picky dog, she’s always turned her nose up at the ordinary kibble. But the moment I first opened this tasty, refrigerated food, her interest was piqued. She couldn’t contain her excitement as we poured the delicate, tender chicken morsels into her dish.

I’ve been astounded by the transformation in her eating habits and overall mood. No more turning her head away from her food, but eagerly scoffing it down as if she can’t get enough. The sight of her relishing her meal has made me appreciate the fresh, human-grade ingredients even more. Her coat has become shinier, and she seems to have more energy and vitality.

The grain-free recipe is a bonus, as she has always had issues with grains, causing her tummy distress in the past. The absence of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives is also a welcome plus. And though the price tag may be higher, the convenience of the resealable bag and the preservation of essential nutrients through lower-temperature cooking makes it worthwhile.

That being said, the food does need to stay fresh, so it must be kept refrigerated at all times. The bag life is relatively short, and you may need to purchase it regularly to ensure the best quality for your dog. And like some others, I’ve found it a little expensive compared to other dog food options.

In conclusion, this Freshpet Select Roasted Meals Dog Food, Grain Free, Tender Chicken Recipe with Garden Vegetables, is an exceptional choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or preferences. Its freshness and high-quality ingredients have made all the difference for my picky pup and me, but do consider the cost and storage requirements for your furry friend.

Freshpet Grain Free Beef & Bison Dog Food — 5 lb (Non-GMO, All-Natural, & Balanced)

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As a dog owner, I’ve tried various dog food brands to ensure my furry friend stays healthy and energetic. Recently, my dog has shown a preference for Freshpet Grain Free Beef & Bison Fresh Dog Food. Now, this isn’t just any dog food; it’s specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs for all life stages. No more worrying about switching to a different food once my dog’s grown older!

What stood out for me in this Freshpet product? First of all, it’s 100% grain-free. I’ve noticed lately that my dog doesn’t react well to certain grains. However, this dog food has exceeded my expectations — not just for its composition, but also for its taste and quality of ingredients. It’s packed with all kinds of antioxidants from ingredients like spinach, blueberries, and cranberries. Plus, it’s made with natural beef and bison, which offer essential iron, zinc, and B12.

Despite its many benefits, I noticed a slight downside to the Freshpet product. While my dog loves it, we’ve found it hard to get our hands on consistently at times. The company has mentioned a switch to a new distributor, causing supply issues in our local stores. But again, if your dog loves it as much as mine does, these issues may just be a small sacrifice for the benefits it provides.

In a nutshell, the Freshpet Grain Free Beef & Bison Fresh Dog Food has been a game changer for my dog’s wellbeing. Despite minor hiccups, I wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow dog owners who prioritize their pet’s health and preferences.

Freshpet Grain-Free Small Breed Refrigerated Dog Food

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As a pet owner, I’ve always been on the lookout for wholesome and nutritious food options for my furry friends. That’s what led me to discover Freshpet Grain Free Small Breed Complete Meals for dogs. The brand promises a complete and balanced diet with fresh meat and veggies that are suitable for all life stages, which intrigued me.

The day I brought a pack home, the refrigerated food had me intrigued from the start. The bite-sized pieces made of natural ingredients stood out, especially the chicken flavor mixed with sweet potatoes, carrots, and cranberries. Since my dog is a bit of a picky eater, I was curious to see if she would take a liking to the new flavor.

To my surprise, the first time my dog saw the meal, her eyes lit up, and she immediately gobbled it up. The texture was soft enough that she didn’t have any issues swallowing it. Her approval was an instant success, and I could see the excitement in her eyes every time she expected her next meal.

However, one thing I did notice was the difference in the mixture of ingredients in each pack. Sometimes, the food contained all the ingredients evenly distributed, while other times, there was a slightly more prominent portion of one type of ingredient. This wasn’t a major issue, but I would like to see more consistency in the ingredients’ distribution.

Overall, the Freshpet Grain Free Small Breed Complete Meals provided me with a sense of assurance that my pet was consuming healthy and wholesome food. While I’d love to see a bit more consistency in the ingredients’ distribution, the fact remains that my pet seems to absolutely love the flavor and texture of the food. As a result, I highly recommend this product for others looking to provide their pets with a nutritious and tasty meal.

Fresh Venison & Squash Recipe Dog Food for All Breeds

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Using JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash Recipe Fresh Frozen Dog Food has been a game-changer for our canine companions. The variety of ingredients, such as venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries, showcases the brand’s commitment to delivering whole food nutrition for dogs. The food is gently cooked with no preservatives added, giving us peace of mind.

One feature that stood out is the use of venison as a novel protein. It’s a great alternative for dogs who may need to avoid other meats due to sensitivities. The inclusion of squash adds fiber and helps soothe the GI tract. This recipe is an excellent choice for dogs who need a novel protein or those transitioning from a “raw” diet to a fresh, whole food diet.

However, there is a downside. The sweet potato pieces in the food are undercooked, which poses a risk for dogs with respiratory issues due to the possibility of ingesting the skin. Additionally, we’ve encountered a hard chunk of debris in one bag, which raises concerns about the food’s quality.

Despite these hiccups, we appreciate the transparency in preparation and the absence of preservatives. As a result, we believe that this product is worth considering for dogs who cannot consume traditional proteins or who need a diet change. JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash Recipe Fresh Frozen Dog Food is a prime example of how a high-quality, human-grade diet can positively impact a dog’s life.

JustFoodForDogs Premium Fresh Lamb & Brown Rice Dog Food (6 Pack)

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Featuring the convenient and long-lasting Tetra Pak packaging, JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is a fresh take on the classic Lamb & Brown Rice recipe for adult canines. With no preservatives, no growth hormones, and no artificial coloring, the human-grade formula provides a nutritionally balanced diet for your furry friend. This fresh, whole-food recipe for active adult dogs and senior canines contains essential vitamins and minerals to maintain their optimal health.

The innovative cardboard packaging with an easy-to-open top adds convenience to the mealtime experience, making it ideal for travel or boarding.

Grain-Free Fresh Dog Food — Vital Complete Meals for All Life Stages

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Introducing Freshpet Vital Complete Meals Grain-Free Chicken, Beef, Salmon & Egg Fresh Dog Food, a wholesome and nutritious meal for your furry companion. With 100% natural, grain-free ingredients, this recipe is perfect for dogs of all life stages. Gently cooked and packed with antioxidant-rich vegetables, including spinach and cranberries, this high-protein meal supports your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

Available in a delicious 5.5-lb bag, Freshpet Vital Complete Meals is made with the finest natural ingredients and gently prepared to preserve its nutritional value. By avoiding preservatives, meat meals, and by-product meals, this fresh dog food ensures your dog gets the best possible nutrition. Made in the USA, you can trust that Freshpet Vital Complete Meals is the perfect choice for your four-legged friend.

Our customers have seen impressive results, with dogs experiencing improved digestion, healthier skin, and increased energy levels. Some owners have even noticed a reduction in allergic reactions and better breath. As a company dedicated to the wellbeing of pets, we’re committed to providing only the best quality fresh food for your canine companion. Try Freshpet Vital Complete Meals today and experience the difference for yourself!

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for refrigerated dog food. In this section, we will discuss the essential features to consider when selecting the right refrigerated dog food for your furry friend. We will also provide valuable advice and considerations to help you make the best decision.

Important Features

  1. Ingredients: Look for high-quality, natural ingredients that provide essential nutrients for your dog’s health. Avoid products with artificial preservatives, additives, or low-quality fillers. Ensure the ingredients cater to your dog’s specific dietary needs, such as allergy-friendly options or grain-free recipes.

Considerations

  1. Storage: Refrigerated dog food should be stored properly to maintain freshness and safety. Choose a container with a tight-fitting lid and store the food in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Consume the food within the manufacturer’s recommended time frame to ensure maximum quality and safety.

General Advice

  1. Transition period: If you are transitioning your dog from a dry or canned diet to a refrigerated dog food, do so gradually over several days. This will help your dog adjust to the new food and prevent stomach upset. Be patient during this process, as it may take some time for your dog to adapt to the change.

Tips to Enhance Your Dog’s Experience

  1. Mix with water: Some refrigerated dog food may have a thicker consistency. Mix the food with warm water to create a more palatable texture for your dog. You can also add the food to your dog’s regular meal to make the transition smoother. Remember to feed your dog at the recommended portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet.

FAQ

What are the advantages of chilled kibble for your doggy friend?

Chilled canine chow offers several benefits over the conventional dry food. It ensures digestion that is much more efficient, enhances absorption of nutrients, and promotes better retention of essential vitamins necessary for your furry companion’s health. Chilling the food preserves its freshness and nutritional value. Plus, it typically lacks artificial additives commonly found in regular dry kibble, which can be a boon for dogs with sensitive tummies or allergies reactive to additives. So, chilled kibble is a healthier, more natural choice for your lovable pet.

How should I keep chilled kibble fresh and safe?

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining your chilled kibble’s freshness and quality. To do this, the food ought to be refrigerated once opened. If the whole portion isn’t consumed in a day or two, leftover kibble can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it shouldn’t be stored for extended periods, as the quality and nutritional value may degrade over time. To maximize the shelf life and best quality for your chilled canine chow, keep it at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Check the food before serving for any signs of spoilage and discard any portion showing spoilage or mold growth. Effective storage and handling help preserve the nutritional value and overall quality of your pet’s food.

Does chilled kibble work for all types of dogs?

Most dogs can safely consume chilled kibble but it’s essential to remember your dog’s unique needs and preferences. Some dogs might be more sensitive or have specific dietary requirements — like low carbs or a grain-free diet. It’s always recommended to consult with a veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet or feeding regimen. It’s crucial to choose chilled kibble brands that comply with strict quality control measures and source high-quality nutrient-dense ingredients. Opting for the right brand and considering your dog’s specific needs and preferences helps ensure that chilled kibble is a healthy and nutritious choice for your pup.

Can chilled kibble be mixed with wet or dry food?

Yes, you can mix chilled kibble with wet or dry food to provide a variety of textures and tastes for your dog. Doing this ensures your furry friend gets a balanced and well-rounded meal while also making eating time more fun and enjoyable. To mix foods, adhere to the feeding guidelines suggested by the food manufacturer to maintain a balanced diet that matches your dog’s unique requirements. Don’t overfeed your canine companion; this could lead to obesity and multiple health problems. Practical portions and a blended diet are vital for your dog’s health and wellbeing.

Is chilled kibble pricier than regular dry food?

Generally, chilled kibble is more pricy than the dried variety. The expense is due to the premium ingredients, nutrient-dense formula, and the advantage of maintaining the freshness of the kibble via refrigeration. However, investing in top-notch chilled kibble offers the potential for long-term benefits, ensuring your dog enjoys optimal health. Compare prices and brands to find the most cost-effective option that still upholds the nutritional and high-quality standards needed for your dog’s health.

What are the potential drawbacks of chilled kibble?

While it offers many upsides, chilled kibble also has some drawbacks to consider. The refrigeration process can make the food less hassle-free to handle and store due to the constant need for refrigeration to maintain its freshness. This can be tricky for pet owners who travel often or have minimal refrigerator space. Additionally, some dogs may get really used to the convenience and pleasing taste of chilled kibble. This can make it challenging to transition them back to regular dry kibble or switch to a different food if needed. To mitigate these risks, introduce chilled kibble gradually and maintain consistent portion sizes per your dog’s overall feeding plan. Proper introductions and consistent portioning can ensure your pet is getting the best possible care and maintaining optimal health.

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